The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced the winners of the 2025 Boots to Business Instructor of the Year awards, shining a spotlight on those who support the entrepreneurial aspirations of service members, veterans, and military spouses. This initiative not only acknowledges extraordinary instructors but also highlights a crucial program that helps military families transition into successful entrepreneurship.
These awards celebrate individuals whose dedication provides life-changing guidance that goes beyond mere instruction. By mentoring those with military backgrounds, these instructors help them channel their skills and experiences into thriving businesses. Kevin Barber, Assistant Administrator for the SBA’s Office of Veterans Business Development, underscores this commitment by stating, “Our veterans and military families have given so much in service to our country, and these instructors honor that service by investing in their futures.”
The Boots to Business (B2B) program, integrated within the Department of Defense’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP), aims to provide veterans and military families with foundational entrepreneurship education. The program has proven invaluable in equipping participants with essential small business skills they need to forge successful careers.
In response to evolving needs, the SBA expanded the Instructor of the Year awards to include new categories focused on specialized skills, such as finance and marketing. These areas are vital for the growth and sustainability of veteran-owned and military spouse-owned businesses.
Among the honorees for 2025 are:
- Tanisha Baptiste-Bynum from the SBA’s Connecticut District Office
- David Smith of the Small Business Development Center at Texas Tech University
- David Chappell from Milwaukee SCORE
- Jason Payne of the Los Angeles Regional Veterans Business Outreach Center
- Lisa Nutt from the Women’s Business Center of Southern Arizona
- David Park from the Syracuse University Institute for Veterans and Military Families
- Joshua Dunlap of U.S. Bank (in the Banking category)
- Shaundell Newsome from Sumnu Marketing (in the “Other” category)
The awards ceremony is set for February 19, 2026, and will be a virtual event open to the public, offering additional insights into the B2B program and its impact on veteran entrepreneurs. Interested participants can register for the event through this link.
For small business owners, especially those from military backgrounds, the significance of programs like B2B cannot be overstated. The educational resources and mentorship provided can lay the groundwork for successful business ventures. The program has successfully trained over 241,000 individuals since its inception, showcasing its effectiveness in translating military experience into civilian entrepreneurship.
However, small business owners should also consider potential challenges. While the B2B program offers foundational knowledge, the transition from military to business environments can come with its own set of hurdles. Veterans and military spouses may need support beyond initial training, including ongoing mentorship, access to capital, and networking opportunities to thrive in competitive markets.
The collaboration between the SBA and various organizations enhances the potency of the B2B program, ensuring that military families are not just equipped with knowledge but are also connected to necessary resources. Through partnerships with organizations across the nation, B2B serves as a bridge for those transitioning from service to civilian life, reinforcing the importance of community in entrepreneurship.
Small business owners looking to expand their skill set or gather insights on navigating the entrepreneurial landscape can take advantage of the resources available through initiatives like Boots to Business. The dedication of the award-winning instructors exemplifies the support and commitment within the network, forging strong pathways for veterans and their families to realize their entrepreneurial dreams.
For additional information about the Boots to Business program, visit sba.gov/bootstobusiness.
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